(The following is an unedited press release from the candidate’s campaign. We have blogged this item in order to give MassLive users the ability to comment.)

VACON TO SEEK THIRD TERM ON HOLYOKE COUNCIL

Vacon is a proven leader for Ward 5

HOLYOKE -- Today in front of a large group of friends, family, and neighbors at JP’s Restaurant, Holyoke Ward 5 City Councilor Linda Vacon announced her re-election campaign.

“I have worked hard to make a difference on the City Council for Ward 5. Whether it is solving a constituent problem or holding the line on wasteful spending, the people of Ward 5 can count on me,” said Vacon.

Since being elected Vacon has been a vocal advocate for Ward 5. She holds regular meetings to educate citizens on important issues and solved many constituent problems. More notably Vacon has worked for greater fiscal accountability and transparency. She remained steadfast in her opposition to higher taxes and fees.

“It is important that we keep Holyoke affordable and that we don’t tax seniors out of their homes. My plan is to continue to find reforms to save taxpayer dollars,” said Vacon.

Understanding the fiscal pressures on the city, Vacon is opting to cut her pay by 10 percent when re-elected.

“This is a matter of leadership. I want to be part of the solution of finding the money to maintain our services. That’s why I will be cutting my own City Council pay. I am putting my money where my mouth is,” said Vacon.

Stopping the illegal needle exchange program has been another major issue for Vacon.

“We need to keep our streets safe. While the needle exchange program is well intentioned, it has attracted some dangerous elements to our neighborhoods. It must be stopped. I want to get the needles off of our streets, said Vacon.